JP2015516873A - Filter assembly and method for draining water - Google Patents

Abstract

A filter assembly, a filter cartridge, and a method for filtering fluid are provided. The filter assembly includes a filter base, a filter housing, and a filter cartridge within the housing. The filter cartridge removes water from the dirty fluid that flows through the assembly. The filter cartridge defines a pair of fluid flow paths that extend through the central cavity of the filter cartridge. These fluid flow paths hold the clean fluid flow after passing through the filter media of the cartridge and the water removed from the dirty fluid flow while maintaining their separation. [Selection] Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates generally to a fluid filter, and more specifically to a fluid filter that filters water from a dirty fluid.

  A filter assembly is used to remove impurities from the fluid stream. For example, a filter assembly can be used to remove particulate matter and water from fluids such as hydraulic fluids and fuels used with machines such as engines. By removing the impurities, it is possible to prevent damage to the downstream system and to improve the performance of the downstream system. One specific impurity that can be a problem in fuels and hydraulic fluids is water contamination. Previous filter assemblies have been configured to remove water from the fluid. Unfortunately, the removed water can then only remain in the filter assembly. The present invention relates to improvements to the current state of the art, and more specifically to improved handling of water removed from a fluid to be filtered.

US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 139,734 U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 360,181

  Embodiments of the present invention relate to a new and improved filter assembly, a filter cartridge used in the filter assembly, and a method for filtering fluid. The present invention primarily relates to removing water from hydraulic fluids and fuels and handling the removed water.

  In one embodiment, a filter cartridge is provided, which is used in a reusable filter housing and is fed from a dirty fluid port on a filter base to which the filter cartridge and filter housing are releasably attachable. Filter the fluid. The filter base includes a clean fluid port through which the cleaned fluid exits and a return port through which separated water separated from the dirty fluid exits. The filter base also includes a dirty fluid port so that dirty fluid is supplied to the filter cartridge from the dirty fluid port when the filter cartridge is attached to the filter base.

  The filter cartridge includes a filter media tube, a first end cap portion, a dirty fluid inlet, a clean fluid outlet, and a return outlet. The filter media tube extends between the first and second ends along the longitudinal axis to define a central cavity. The first end cap portion is sealingly attached to the first end of the filter media tube.

  The first end cap portion retains a dirt fluid inlet, the dirt fluid inlet being fluid sealed by the filter base dirt fluid port upstream of the filter media tube and in fluid communication with the dirt fluid port. Defined by the inlet seal configuration.

  The clean fluid outlet is defined downstream of the filter media tube by a clean fluid outlet seal configuration that is fluid sealed by the filter base clean fluid port and in fluid communication with the clean fluid port. The filter media tube is fluidly positioned between the dirty fluid inlet and the clean fluid outlet so that the fluid flow through the clean fluid outlet always passes through the filter media tube.

  The return outlet is defined by a return outlet seal configuration that is fluid sealed by the return port and in fluid communication with the return port. The separated water flow through the return outlet bypasses the filter media tube and is separated from both clean and dirty fluid flows and operatively flows in the central cavity of the filter media tube.

  In one embodiment, the dirty fluid inlet seal configuration includes a first radially inward seal and a first radially outward seal. The first radially outward sealant has a smaller diameter than the first radially inward sealant. The dirty fluid inlet is a gap formed between a first radially inward seal and a first radially outward seal in a dirty fluid inlet seal configuration. The clean fluid inlet seal configuration includes a second radially inward seal and a first radially outward seal. The second radially inward seal is located radially inward relative to the first radially outward seal. The clean fluid outlet is a gap formed between the first radially outward seal and the second radially inward seal. The return outlet sealing configuration is provided by a second radially inward seal.

  In one embodiment, the dirty fluid inlet is axially spaced along the longitudinal axis from the first end of the filter media and at least a portion is radially inward from the outer diameter of the filter media tube. Located in. The first end cap portion defines a radially outward flow path that extends radially outward relative to the longitudinal axis when there is a downstream flow from the dirt fluid inlet.

  In one embodiment, the radially outward flow path is axially spaced from the first end of the filter media tube, and the first end of the filter media tube is axially along the longitudinal axis. In the direction between the second end and the radially outward flow path.

  In one embodiment, the second radially inward seal and the first radially outward seal are provided by a single seal member that is pivoted to the first end cap portion. It may be in the form of a grommet fixed in the direction. In one embodiment, the first radially inward seal is provided by the second seal member.

  In one embodiment, the filter cartridge further includes a second radially outward seal adjacent to the radial outer periphery of the first end cap portion. The second radially outward seal is configured to be sealed by the radially inward sealing surface of the filter housing to seal the filter cartridge within the filter housing.

  In one embodiment, the return flow path extends through the internal cavity of the filter media tube. The return channel is fluidly located between the dirty fluid inlet and the return outlet. The separated water passes through the return channel. A clean channel extends through the internal cavity from the downstream side of the filter media tube to the clean fluid outlet. The clean flow path is fluidly separated from the return flow path.

  The filter cartridge, in one embodiment, includes a second end cap portion attached to the second end of the filter media tube. The second end cap portion includes a central opening that extends through the second end cap portion. The return channel is in fluid communication with the outside of the filter media tube through the central opening.

  In one embodiment, the filter cartridge further includes a central tube portion located within the internal cavity of the filter media tube. The central tube portion includes a central passage that provides a return flow path. The central passage is in fluid communication with the outside of the filter media tube through a central opening in the second end cap portion. In a more specific embodiment, the central passage of the central tube includes an inlet disposed axially away from the return outlet. The inlet is disposed axially away from the second end of the filter media tube and is located outside the internal cavity of the filter media tube.

  In one embodiment, the central tube portion includes a second fluid passage that is radially spaced from the central passage. The second fluid passage provides a clean flow path. The second fluid passage has an inlet in the central cavity of the filter media tube and between the first and second ends in the axial direction and is in fluid communication with the clean fluid outlet through the second fluid passage.

  In one embodiment, the inlet of the second fluid passage is located axially along the longitudinal axis at a location closer to the second end of the filter media tube than to the first end of the filter media tube. .

  In one embodiment, the central tube includes an axially extending tubular portion that extends axially through the central opening of the second end cap portion. The distal end of the axially extending tubular portion defines an entrance for the central passage.

  In another embodiment, a filter cartridge for use in a reusable filter housing is provided. The filter cartridge is used to filter dirty fluid supplied from a filter base dirty fluid port to which the filter cartridge and filter housing are releasably attachable. The filter base also includes a clean fluid port through which the cleaned fluid exits and a return port through which separated water exits. The filter cartridge includes a filter media tube extending between the first and second ends along the longitudinal axis and defining a central cavity. A dirty fluid inlet is sealed upstream of the filter media tube by a filter-based dirty fluid port and is in fluid communication with the dirty fluid port. A clean fluid outlet is sealed downstream of the filter media tube by a clean fluid port and is in fluid communication with the clean fluid port. The filter media tube is fluidly positioned between the dirty fluid inlet and the clean fluid outlet so that the fluid flow through the clean fluid outlet always passes through the filter media tube. A return outlet is sealed by the return port and is in fluid communication with the return port. Fluid flow through the return outlet bypasses the filter media tube.

  In one embodiment, a filter assembly is also provided. The filter assembly includes a filter base, a filter housing, and a filter cartridge. The filter base includes a dirty fluid port, a clean fluid port, and a return port. The filter housing is removably attachable to the filter base and defines an internal cavity. The filter cartridge is removably disposed within the internal cavity of the filter housing. The filter cartridge includes a filter media tube, a dirty fluid inlet, a clean fluid outlet, and a return outlet. The filter media tube extends between the first and second ends along the longitudinal axis to define a central cavity. The dirt fluid inlet is sealed upstream of the filter media tube by a filter base dirt fluid port and is in fluid communication with the dirt fluid port. The clean fluid outlet is sealed by the clean fluid port and in fluid communication with the clean fluid port downstream of the filter media tube. The return outlet is sealed by the return port and is in fluid communication with the return port. When the filter cartridge is installed in the filter housing, the filter cartridge and the filter housing define a sump area therebetween, the sump area being downstream of the filter media tube and upstream of the return outlet. It is in. When the filter cartridge is installed in the filter housing, the return outlet is in fluid communication with the sump area. The sump area collects water separated from the dirty fluid before the dirty fluid passes through the filter media tube.

  In one embodiment, the filter base, filter housing, and filter cartridge are configured such that when the filter assembly is assembled, the sump region is substantially vertically below the filter cartridge.

  A further filter assembly is provided. The filter assembly includes a filter base, a filter housing, and a filter cartridge. The filter base includes a first generally tubular portion, the first generally tubular portion extending axially along the longitudinal axis, a first radially outward sealing surface, and a first radially outwardly facing surface. A first radially inward sealing surface that is smaller in diameter than the sealing surface. The first generally tubular portion defines a dirt fluid port located radially between the first radially outward sealing surface and the first radially inward sealing surface. The filter base includes a second generally tubular portion, the second generally tubular portion extending axially along the longitudinal axis and having an outer diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the first radially inward sealing surface. Two radially outward sealing surfaces are defined, and the filter base also defines a central channel. The central channel forms a return port. A clean fluid port is formed between the first radially inward sealing surface and the second radially outward sealing surface.

  The filter housing is removably attached to the filter base to define an internal cavity.

  The filter cartridge is removably disposed within the internal cavity of the filter housing. The filter cartridge includes a filter media tube, a dirty fluid inlet, a clean fluid outlet, and a return outlet. The filter media tube extends between the first and second ends along the longitudinal axis and is parallel to the longitudinal axis and defines a central cavity. The dirty fluid inlet is sealed by a filter-based dirty fluid port upstream of the filter media tube and is in fluid communication with the dirty fluid port. The clean fluid outlet is sealed by the clean fluid port downstream of the filter media tube and is in fluid communication with the clean fluid port. The return outlet is sealed by the return port and is in fluid communication with the return port. The filter cartridge and the filter housing define a sump area therebetween, the sump area being downstream of the filter media tube and upstream of the return outlet. The sump area collects water separated from dirty fluid outside the filter media tube. The return outlet is in fluid communication with the sump region through the central cavity of the filter media tube.

  In a further embodiment, a filter assembly is provided. The filter assembly includes a filter base, a filter housing, and a filter cartridge. The filter base includes a first generally tubular portion, the first generally tubular portion extending axially along the longitudinal axis, a first radially outward sealing surface, and a first radially outwardly facing surface. A first radially inward sealing surface that is smaller in diameter than the sealing surface. The first generally tubular portion defines a dirt fluid port located radially between the first radially outward sealing surface and the first radially inward sealing surface. The filter base also includes a second generally tubular portion that extends axially along the longitudinal axis and has an outer diameter that is less than the diameter of the first radially inward sealing surface. A second radially outward sealing surface is defined and the filter base also defines a central channel. The central channel forms a return port. A clean fluid port is formed between the first radially inward sealing surface and the second radially outward sealing surface.

  The filter housing is removably attached to the filter base to define an internal cavity.

  The filter cartridge is removably disposed within the internal cavity of the filter housing, the filter cartridge including a filter media tube that extends between the first and second ends along the longitudinal axis. Defining a central cavity.

  A first end cap portion is sealingly attached to the first end of the filter media tube. The first end cap portion holds a dirty fluid inlet, a clean fluid outlet, and a return outlet.

  The dirty fluid inlet is defined by a dirty fluid inlet sealing configuration that is fluid sealed by the first radially outward sealing surface and the first radial inward sealing surface. The dirt fluid inlet is in fluid communication with the filter base dirt fluid port upstream of the filter media tube.

  The clean fluid outlet is defined by a clean fluid outlet seal configuration that is fluid sealed by a first radially inward sealing surface and a second radially outward sealing surface. The clean fluid outlet is in fluid communication with the filter base clean fluid port downstream of the filter media tube. The filter media tube is fluidly positioned between the dirty fluid inlet and the clean fluid outlet so that the fluid flow through the clean fluid outlet always passes through the filter media tube.

  The return outlet is defined by a return outlet sealing configuration that is fluid-sealed by a second radially outward sealing surface. The return outlet is in fluid communication with the return port.

  The filter cartridge and the filter housing define a sump area therebetween, the sump area being downstream of the filter media tube and upstream of the return outlet. The sump area collects water separated from dirty fluid outside the filter media tube. The return outlet is in fluid communication with the sump region through the central cavity of the filter media tube.

  In one embodiment, a method for filtering fluid is provided. The method includes receiving dirty fluid at a filter base inlet port and draining water from the dirty fluid before the dirty fluid enters the central cavity of the filter media cylinder of a filter cartridge attached to the filter base. Separating, passing water through a water sump area formed between the filter cartridge and the filter housing in which the filter cartridge is located, and passing dirty fluid through the filter media tube to remove the dirty Removing particulates from the fluid and converting the dirty fluid to a clean fluid; passing the clean fluid through a clean fluid flow path having an inlet in the central cavity of the filter media tube; Discharging from the channel through the clean fluid outlet of the filter cartridge; Including a return flow path extending through the central cavity of the tube and the step of passing the water, a step of releasing the clean water through the filter cartridge return outlet, the.

  In a further embodiment, the water enters the return channel from the inlet of the return channel, located axially outward with respect to the central cavity of the filter media tube.

  In a further embodiment, the method further includes replacing the filter cartridge with a new filter cartridge, including replacing the return flow path while replacing the filter cartridge.

  These filter assembly and method embodiments utilize a filter cartridge as defined above, if desired.

  Other aspects, objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

  The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

  While the invention will be described in connection with certain preferred embodiments, it is not limited to those embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

1 is a top perspective view of a filter assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly of FIG. 1 near line 2-2. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly of FIG. 1 near line 3-3. FIG. 3 is an exploded sectional view of FIG. 2. It is sectional drawing of the filter housing and filter cartridge of FIG. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a filter cartridge and a filter housing in the filter assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a central tube of a filter cartridge in the filter assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is an exploded sectional view of the filter cartridge and the filter housing of FIG. 5. It is a top perspective view of a filter cartridge. It is a bottom perspective view of a filter cartridge. It is a top perspective view of the center cylinder of a filter cartridge.

  FIG. 1 illustrates a filter assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The filter assembly 100 mainly includes a filter base 102 to which a filter housing 104 is releasably secured. The filter base 102 includes a plurality of inlet and outlet ports used for various functions. For example, these ports can be used to receive dirty fluid, release clean fluid, return water separated from dirty fluid to storage tanks or drains, and return lines for excess fluid It is. In the illustrated embodiment, the dirt fluid port 106 and the cleaning fluid port 108 are on the same side of the filter base 102. In FIG. 2, the return port 110 is shown.

  With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the filter assembly 100 also includes a replaceable filter cartridge 112 that is used to clean fluid flowing through the filter assembly 100. The filter cartridge 112 preferably removes both particulate impurities contained in the fluid stream and removes or separates water from the fluid stream flowing from the dirty fluid port 106 to the clean fluid port 108. Composed. The fluid flow between these two ports is indicated by arrows 114,116. Arrow 114 indicates dirty fluid and arrow 116 indicates clean fluid that has passed through the filter media of the filter cartridge 112. Arrow 118 indicates water or other impurities separated from dirty fluid 114. In some embodiments, water separated from dirty fluid may be returned to storage tanks, such as fuel storage tanks or hydraulic fluid storage tanks, and removed from those tanks at a later date. Alternatively, the separated water may be drained immediately from the system and sent to a separate storage tank for the separated water.

  Referring to FIG. 4, the filter base 102 includes a first thread group 120, and the first thread group 120 is associated with a second thread group 122 of the filter housing 104 to cause the filter housing 104 to move. It is releasably fixed to the filter base 102, and the filter cartridge 112 can be replaced during regular maintenance.

  Filter housing 104 is generally bowl-shaped or generally cup-shaped including an annular side wall 124 that generally defines an internal cavity 125. The annular side wall 124 terminates at a distal end 126 that forms the open end of the filter housing 104 that receives the filter cartridge 112. The filter housing 104 is generally closed at the end opposite the distal end 126. Adjacent to the distal end 126, the annular side wall 124 defines a radially inward sealing surface 128 that cooperates with the radially outward sealing member 130 of the filter cartridge 112. Then, the filter cartridge 112 is sealed in the filter housing 104 (see also FIG. 5).

  Referring to FIG. 4, the filter base 102 typically includes a first generally tubular portion 132 that extends axially along a longitudinal axis 134. The first generally tubular portion includes a first radially outward sealing surface 136 and a first radially inward seal having an inner diameter that is smaller than an outer diameter of the first radially outward sealing surface 136. A stop surface 138 is defined. These two surfaces 136, 138 are preferably substantially concentric about the longitudinal axis 134. The dirt fluid port 106 is at least partially formed radially between the first radially outward sealing surface 136 and the first radially inward sealing surface 138. In the illustrated embodiment, this portion of the dirt fluid port 106 is formed by a single axially extending passage formed in the first generally tubular portion 132. However, in alternative embodiments, this may be formed by multiple passages. Further, in alternative embodiments, the passage may not necessarily extend axially as it exits the first generally tubular portion 132 and may exit radially.

  The filter base 102 further includes a second generally tubular portion 140 that extends axially along the longitudinal axis 134. The second generally tubular portion 140 defines a second radially outward sealing surface 142. The outer diameter of the second radially outward sealing surface 142 is substantially smaller than the inner diameter of the first radially inward sealing surface 138. The second generally tubular portion 140 also defines a central channel 144 that forms at least a portion of the return port 110. The cleaning fluid port 108 is formed at least in part between the first radially inward sealing surface 138 and the second radially outward sealing surface 142.

  When the filter cartridge 112 is inserted into the filter housing 104, the filter cartridge 112 is disposed between the dirty fluid port 106 and the clean fluid port 108 so that fluid flowing through the filter cartridge 112 is filtered. The filter cartridge 112 and the filter housing 104 can be operatively attached to the filter base 102.

  4 and 5, the filter cartridge 112 includes an axially extending filter media tube 146 that is generally concentric with the longitudinal axis 134 and defines a central cavity 148. The filter media tube 146 extends longitudinally between the first end 150 and the second end 152.

  Filter cartridge 112 includes a dirty fluid inlet 154, a cleaning fluid outlet 156, and a return outlet 158.

  The dirty fluid inlet 154 is sealed upstream of the filter media tube 146 by the dirty fluid port 106 of the filter base 102 and is in fluid communication with the dirty fluid port 106. The dirty fluid inlet 154 is generally formed in the illustrated embodiment by a dirty fluid inlet sealing configuration that is operatively fluid sealed by the dirty fluid port 106 and in fluid communication with the dirty fluid port 106. The dirty fluid inlet seal configuration includes a first radially inward seal 160 and a first radially outward seal 162. The first radially outward sealant 162 has a smaller diameter than the first radially inward sealant 160. The dirty fluid inlet 154 is a generally annular gap formed radially between the first radially inward seal 160 and the first radially outward seal 162. When assembled, the first radially inward seal 160 is operatively sealed by the first radially outward sealing surface 136 of the first generally tubular portion 132 of the filter base 102. . Further, the first radially outward seal 162 is operatively sealed by the first radially inward sealing surface 138 of the first generally tubular portion 132. This configuration allows the dirty fluid port 106 to be in operative communication with the upstream side of the filter media tube 146, i.e., the outer periphery.

  The filter cartridge 112 further includes a first end cap portion 164 that is sealingly attached to the first end 150 of the filter media tube 146. The first end cap portion 164 defines a radially outward flow path 166 (see also FIG. 3) that extends radially outward relative to the longitudinal axis 134 such that the dirty fluid 114 is As it flows downstream from the inlet 154, it allows it to flow radially outward relative to the longitudinal axis 134. The dirty fluid inlet 154 is generally axially spaced from the first end 150 of the filter media tube 146 along the longitudinal axis 134 and at least a portion of the outer diameter of the filter media tube 146. Is located radially inward. The radially outward flow path 166 allows dirty fluid to flow radially outward from the dirty fluid inlet 154 to the outer periphery of the filter media tube 146, after which the dirty fluid is directed radially inward. It can be filtered by flowing through the filter media 146.

  The cleaning fluid outlet 156 is defined by the cleaning fluid outlet sealing configuration and, when assembled, is downstream of the filter media tube 146 and is fluid sealed by the cleaning fluid port 108 of the filter base 102 and the cleaning fluid port 108. Fluid communication. Accordingly, the filter media tube 146 is fluidly disposed between the dirty fluid inlet 154 and the clean fluid outlet 156 so that fluid flow through the clean fluid outlet 156 must pass through the filter media tube 146 before that. ing.

  The clean fluid outlet seal configuration not only uses a first radially outward seal 162 but also includes a second radially inward seal 168. The second radially inward sealant 168 is located radially inward relative to the first radially outward sealant 162. The clean fluid outlet 156 is a fluid flow path or gap 170 formed between the first radially outward seal 162 and the second radially inward seal 168.

  The first radially outward seal 162 is sealed by the first radially inward sealing surface 138 of the first generally tubular portion 132. The second radially inward seal 168 is sealed by the second radially outward sealing surface 142 of the second generally tubular portion 140. Accordingly, the fluid flow path or gap 170 formed by the clean fluid outlet sealing configuration was formed between the first radially inward sealing surface 138 and the second radially outward sealing surface 142. In operative communication with the annular gap, it forms part of the clean fluid port 108 of the filter base 102. The clean fluid outlet sealing configuration is also retained by the first end cap portion 164 of the filter cartridge 112.

  The return outlet 158 is defined by a return outlet seal configuration that is operatively fluid-sealed by and in fluid communication with the return port 110 of the filter base 102. This communication allows the separated water stream 118 separated from the dirty fluid to exit the filter housing 104, bypass the filter media tube 146, and reach the return outlet 110. The return exit seal configuration is provided by a second radially inward seal 168. The return outlet 158 is a flow path 172 in which the second radially inward sealant 168 is substantially bounded. The return outlet sealing configuration is also retained by the first end cap portion 164.

  The surfaces 136, 138, 142 are generally defined as radially inward or outward sealing surfaces. However, these surfaces may be slightly tilted or chamfered relative to the longitudinal axis 134 to facilitate mating engagement with the filter cartridge 112. Furthermore, these surfaces may include lead-in chamfers as shown in this embodiment. However, these surfaces may still be considered as substantially radially outward or inward sealing surfaces. Similarly, radially inward or outward seals 160, 162, 168 provide first and second generally tubular portions 132, when the filter cartridge 112 and filter housing 104 are mounted to the filter base 102, Chamfering or tilting may be provided relative to the longitudinal axis 134 to similarly facilitate mating engagement with 140. Again, however, these planes would normally be considered as facing in the radial direction.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the first radially inward seal 160 is provided by its own sealing member in the form of an O-ring. The first radially outward seal 162 and the second radially inward seal 168 are provided by a single sealing member 174.

  The radially outward sealing material 130 described above is sealed by the radially inward sealing surface 128 of the filter housing 104 in the illustrated embodiment, and the first end cap portion 164 has a first outer periphery. Held by one end cap portion 164 and shown as an O-ring.

  The filter cartridge 112 generally defines a return channel 176 that extends through the central cavity 148 of the filter media tube 146. The return flow path 176 is operatively fluidly disposed between the dirty fluid inlet 154 and the return outlet 158. The water separated from the dirty fluid 114 can reach the return outlet 158 through the return channel 176.

  Referring to FIG. 5, when the filter cartridge 112 is inserted into the filter housing 104, the filter cartridge 112 and the filter housing 104 define a sump area 178 that collects after the separated water 118 is removed from the contaminated fluid 114. . This water enters the return channel 176 through the inlet 180 of the return channel 176. The sump area 178 is preferably below the filter cartridge 112 gravity. Thus, when in operation and the filter cartridge 112 is operatively attached to the filter base 102, the first end cap portion 164 is connected to the second end cap portion 184 of the return channel 176 and the inlet. 180 vertically above.

  The filter cartridge 112 also defines a clean flow path 182 that also passes through the central cavity 148 of the filter media tube 146. The clean flow path 182 extends from the downstream side (ie, radially inward) of the filter media tube 146 to the clean fluid outlet 156. The filter cartridge 112 has a clean channel 182 and a return channel 176 that are fluidly separated from each other within the central cavity 148 of the filter media tube 146 so that the two fluid streams passing through the filter media tube 146 do not mix. It is configured.

  The filter cartridge 112 further includes a second end cap portion 184 as well as a central tube 186. Second end cap portion 184 is sealingly attached to second end 152 of filter media tube 146. The central tube 186 is generally located within the central cavity 148 of the filter media tube 146 and extends generally axially along the longitudinal axis 134. The second end cap portion 184 includes a central opening 188 that passes through the second end cap portion 184. The central opening 188 allows communication between the outside of the filter cartridge 112 and the central cavity 148 of the filter media tube 146. The return flow path 176 of the filter cartridge 112 is in fluid communication with the outside of the filter media tube 146 through the central opening 188.

  The return channel 176 is defined by a central tube 186 that includes a central passage that defines the return channel 176 in the illustrated embodiment. The central tube 186 includes an axially extending tubular portion 190 that extends axially through the central opening 188 of the second end cap portion 184. The distal end of the axially extending tubular portion 190 generally defines the central passage inlet 180 of the central tube, as well as the inlet of the return channel 176. The inlet 180 is axially spaced from the return outlet 158. The inlet 180 is also axially spaced from the second end 152 of the filter media tube 146 so that the inlet 180 is located outside the central cavity 148 of the filter media tube 146. More specifically, the second end 152 of the filter media tube 146 is disposed axially along the longitudinal axis 134 between the first end 150 and the inlet 180.

  A sealing member 192 seals between the second end cap portion 184 and the central tube 186. In an alternative embodiment, the second end cap portion 184 and the central tube 186 may be formed by one single piece and the seal 192 may be omitted.

  The clean flow path 182 is also at least partially formed by the central tube 186. The clean flow path 182 is spaced radially from the return flow path 176 provided by the central passage of the central tube 186. The clean channel 182 has an inlet region 194 (see also FIGS. 6 and 7) located in the central cavity 148 of the filter media tube 146. Clean channel 182 provides fluid communication between inlet region 194 and clean fluid outlet 156. Preferably, the inlet region 194 of the cleaning channel 182 is positioned axially along the longitudinal axis 134 closer to the second end 152 of the filter media tube than the first end 150 of the filter media tube 146. To do. This helps keep the inlet region 194 submerged in fluid and helps avoid priming degradation or restart after priming degradation.

  Referring to FIG. 5, the sealing member 174 sealingly engages the radial flange portion 196 of the first end cap portion 164. The sealing member 174 includes an annular groove 198 having a radially outward opening that forms a relief groove that receives the radial flange portion 196 such that the sealing member 174 is relative to the first end cap portion 164. It takes the form of a grommet in that it can be positioned relatively automatically. The sealing member 174 extends through the opening defined by the radial flange portion 196 of the first end cap 164. The sealing member 174 includes an axially extending tubular portion 200 with a reduced diameter, the tubular portion 200 defining a radially outward sealing surface 202. The axially extending tubular portion 200 is received axially within the return channel 176 of the central tube 186. The radially outward sealing surface 202 is sealed radially by the inner surface 204 of the central tube 186 that defines the return channel 176. This sealing prevents clean fluid or separated water from bypassing the engagement portion between the sealing member 174 and the central tube 186.

  Referring to FIG. 8, the central tube 186 includes a pair of parallel and concentric axially extending walls 206, 208 that define an annular channel 210 therebetween. The first end cap portion 164 includes an axially extending wall 212 that is within the channel 210 of the central tube 186 and the pair of walls 206, 208 when the filter cartridge 112 is fully assembled. Received axially between. An adhesive is disposed between the central tube and the first end cap portion 164 to provide a seal between the first end 214 of the central tube 186 and the first end cap portion 164. It's okay. Alternatively, the first end cap portion 164 may be formed as an integral part with the central tube 186. Further, the first end 214 of the central tube 186 may be embedded in the first end cap portion 164 such that fluid does not pass between the first end cap portion 164 or otherwise. May be ultrasonically welded to the first end cap portion 164. If an adhesive is used, the same adhesive may be used to secure the filter media 146 to the first end cap portion 164. Alternatively, the filter media 146 may be embedded in the first end cap portion 164 or otherwise sealingly attached to the first end cap portion 164. Ultrasonic welding or chemical bonding may be used between the media 146 and the first end cap portion 164.

  The central tube 186 further passes fluid through the filter media 146 and near the first end 150 of the filter media 146 axially along the central axis 134 toward the inlet region 194 of the central tube 186. A helical fin 218. The fins 218 above the inlet region 194 are generally provided by a single continuous helical fin. The fins 218 are preferably sized to support the inner diameter or inner circumference of the filter media tube 146 in the radial direction.

  At the second end 220 of the central tube 186, the central tube 186 includes an axially extending wall 222 that is annulus of the second end cap portion 184 when the filter cartridge 112 is assembled. Received axially within the recess 224. Again, the recess 222 may be attached to the second end cap 184 by adhesive so that fluid does not pass between the recess 222 and the second end cap 184. Alternatively, the central tube 186 may be welded to the second end cap 184 ultrasonically or otherwise. Further, any plastisol adhesive or other adhesive used to secure the filter media 146 to the second end cap 184 secures the central tube 186 to the second end cap portion 184; As well, it may be used to seal the flow path 176 to the second end cap 184 when an O-ring is not used.

  In a preferred embodiment, the filter media tube 146 is configured to remove water from the dirty fluid 114. In an alternative embodiment, a separate media or peel-off screen may be placed around the filter media tube 146. However, in the embodiments herein, other means of removing water from the dirty fluid stream may also be implemented. One advantage of the illustrated embodiment is that when the filter assembly 100 is fully assembled and operational, the sump area 178 is generally vertically below the filter cartridge 112 to remove the removed water into the sump area. The movement of can be supported by gravity. However, because of this arrangement, the return flow path 176 through the filter cartridge 112 is rarely used as an air return path used during priming of the filter assembly 100 during routine maintenance. This is because the filter housing 104 and filter cartridge 112 are substantially filled with fluid that covers the inlet 180 and that air cannot pass through the inlet 180 during the priming process. Further, the return channel 176 is larger in size than a typical vent passage, which is large enough to allow the removed water to pass through.

  In operation, a method for filtering dirty fluid is provided. The method includes receiving dirty fluid through the dirty fluid inlet 154 of the filter cartridge 112 via the dirty fluid port 106 of the filter base 102. The dirty fluid 114 passes radially outward through the radially outward flow path 166 formed in the first end cap portion 164. This fluid flow is radially outward relative to the central axis 134 and is spaced generally axially from the filter media tube 146. Accordingly, the first end 150 of the filter media 146 is axially located between the radially outward flow path 166 and the second end 152 of the filter media tube 146.

  The dirty fluid flows radially outward and then axially downward toward the second end 152 of the filter media tube 146. This dirty fluid is outside the filter media tube 146 and then flows radially through the filter media tube and is cleaned by the filter media tube 146. Further, when the dirty fluid is outside of the filter media tube 146 and subsequently travels through the filter media tube 146, water retained by the dirty fluid may be removed from the dirty fluid. Is possible. This water flows axially toward the sump area 178 at the bottom of the housing 104. The fluid that passes through the filter media tube 146 becomes clean fluid and enters the central cavity 148. Clean fluid 116 moves toward the inlet region 194 of the central tube 186. The clean fluid 116 travels through the clean flow path 182 to the clean fluid outlet 156 of the filter cartridge and from there to the clean fluid port 108 of the filter base 102 and into the downstream system for use in the downstream system. Head.

  The separated water 118 in the sump area is drawn into the inlet 180 and enters the return flow path 176 and again travels there through the central cavity 148 of the filter media tube 146. However, this separated water flow is also separated from the clean fluid flow within the central cavity 148 of the filter media tube 146. This separation is provided by the central tube 186 of the illustrated embodiment. The separated water flows along the return flow path 176 to the return outlet 158 from where it enters the filter-based return port 110. The separated water may then be returned to a fluid storage tank or other water storage area, which is one of the impurities of the dirty fluid. Note that the fluid passing through the return outlet 158 does not pass through the filter media tube 146.

  The filter assembly 100 also includes various additional features for securing the combined filter cartridge and filter housing (sometimes referred to as filter elements) to the filter base 102. For example, the system is disclosed in US patent application Ser. No. 12 / 139,734, filed Jun. 16, 2008, and assigned to the assignee of the present invention, entitled “Filter Elements and Filter Assemblies Containing Locking Mechanisms”. FILTER ELEMENT AND FILTER ASSEMBLY INCLUDING LOCKING MECHANASM) ”is used. The teachings and disclosure of this application are incorporated herein by reference. In addition, the system includes a filter cartridge eject mechanism or configuration that automatically assists removal of the filter cartridge 112 from the filter housing 104 when the filter housing 104 and filter cartridge 112 are removed from the filter base 102 during routine maintenance. Use. A typical auto-eject mechanism is filed on Jan. 27, 2012 and assigned to the assignee of the present invention, US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 360,181, entitled “Filter Device with Eject Configuration (FILTER)”. APPARATUS WITH EJECTION ARRANGEMENT) ". The teachings and disclosure of this application are incorporated herein by reference.

  Briefly referring to FIG. 6, the filter housing includes a rib 300 on the first end cap 164, and the rib 300 is associated with the torsion lock structure of the filter base 100. In addition, the filter cartridge 112 includes a key 302 that engages the corresponding channel 304 of the filter housing 104 at an angle. Engagement of the key 302 and the channel 304 prevents the filter housing 104 from rotating with respect to the filter cartridge 112 during the assembly process and the disassembly process. Thereby, both the torsion lock function and the automatic eject mechanism can be operated. This is because the first end cap 164 will also rotate with the housing when the user attempts to rotate the screw-type housing 104 and remove it from the filter base. The filter cartridge 112 also includes eject tabs that are used to engage corresponding shelves of the filter base 102.

  All documents, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in the form that each document is specifically and individually indicated, and each document is entirely incorporated by reference. To the same extent as described in the specification, it is incorporated herein by reference.

  The use of the phrases “a”, “an”, and “the”, as well as similar directives, in the context of describing the present invention (particularly in the context of the following claims) is used herein. Unless specifically noted or clearly contradicted by context, it should be construed as including both singular and plural. Unless otherwise specified, the terms “comprising”, “having”, “including”, and “containing” are open-ended terms (ie, including “˜”). , "But not limited to"). Unless otherwise indicated herein, the use of numerical ranges in this specification is intended only to serve as an abbreviation for referring individually to each value falling within that range. Each value is incorporated herein as if it were individually listed herein. All methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. Any examples or exemplary language given herein (eg, “such as”) is intended only to make the present invention more obvious, unless specifically claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate variations from these preferred embodiments upon reading the foregoing description. The present inventors envision that those skilled in the art will appropriately employ such variations, and contemplate that the present invention may be implemented in ways other than those specifically described herein. ing. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations of the preferred embodiments is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Claims (34)

Filter cartridge for use in a reusable filter housing to filter dirty fluid supplied from a filter base and a dirty fluid port of a filter base to which the filter housing is releasably attachable The filter base includes a clean fluid port through which the cleaned fluid exits and a return port through which separated water separated from the dirty fluid exits, the filter cartridge Is
A filter media tube extending between the first and second ends along the longitudinal axis to define a central cavity;
A first end cap portion sealingly attached to the first end of the filter media tube, the first end cap portion comprising:
Upstream of the filter media tube, a dirt fluid inlet defined by a dirt fluid inlet sealing arrangement fluidly sealed by the dirt fluid port of the filter base and in fluid communication with the dirt fluid port;
A clean fluid outlet defined by a clean fluid outlet sealing arrangement downstream of the filter media tube and fluidly sealed by the clean fluid port of the filter base and in fluid communication with the clean fluid port; The cleaning fluid, wherein a media tube is fluidly positioned between the dirty fluid inlet and the cleaning fluid outlet, so that a fluid flow through the cleaning fluid outlet must pass through the filter media tube. Exit,
A return outlet defined by a return outlet sealing arrangement fluidly sealed by the return port and in fluid communication with the return port, wherein the flow of separated water through the return outlet bypasses the filter media tube; Holding the return outlet operatively flowing in the central cavity of the filter media tube, separated from both clean and dirty fluid flows;
Filter cartridge. The dirty fluid inlet seal configuration includes a first radially inward seal and a first radially outward seal, wherein the first radially outward seal is the first radial seal. The dirty fluid inlet has a smaller diameter than a radially inward seal, and the dirty fluid inlet includes the first radially inward seal and the first radially outward seal of the dirty fluid inlet seal configuration. An annular gap formed between
The clean fluid inlet seal configuration includes a second radially inward seal and the first radially outward seal, wherein the second radially inward seal is the first The cleaning fluid outlet is located radially inward relative to the radially outward sealing material, and the cleaning fluid outlet is the first radially outward sealing material and the second radially inward sealing material. A gap formed between
The return outlet sealing configuration is provided by the second radially inward seal;
The filter cartridge according to claim 1.   The dirty fluid inlet is axially spaced along the longitudinal axis from the first end of the filter media, and at least a portion is radially inward from the outer diameter of the filter media tube. And the first end cap portion defines a radially outward flow path that extends radially outward relative to the longitudinal axis when there is downstream flow from the dirt fluid inlet. The filter cartridge according to claim 1.   The filter cartridge of claim 3, wherein the radially outward flow path is axially spaced from the first end of the filter media tube.   The filter cartridge of claim 2, wherein the second radially inward seal and the first radially outward seal are provided by a single sealing member.   6. The filter cartridge of claim 5, wherein the first radially inward seal is provided by a second seal member.   A second radially outward sealing material proximate to a radially outer periphery of the first end cap portion, wherein the second radially outward sealing material is radially inward of the filter housing; The filter cartridge of claim 6, wherein the filter cartridge is configured to be sealed by an orientation sealing surface to seal the filter cartridge within the filter housing. A return flow path extending through the internal cavity of the filter media tube, the return flow path being fluidly positioned between the dirty fluid inlet and the return outlet, wherein the flow of separated water is The return channel passing through the return channel;
A clean flow path extending from the downstream side of the filter media tube through the internal cavity to the clean fluid outlet, wherein the clean flow path is fluidly separated from the return flow path;
The filter cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising:   And further comprising a second end cap portion attached to the second end of the filter media tube, the second end cap portion passing through the second end cap portion. The filter cartridge of claim 8, wherein the return flow path is in fluid communication with the outside of the filter media tube through the central opening.   A central tube portion located within the internal cavity of the filter media tube, the central tube portion including a central passage providing the return flow path, wherein the central passage is of the second end cap portion; The filter cartridge of claim 9, wherein the filter cartridge is in fluid communication with the outside of the filter media tube through the central opening.   The central passage of the central tube includes an inlet disposed axially away from the return outlet, the inlet disposed axially away from the second end of the filter media tube; The filter cartridge of claim 10, wherein an inlet is located outside the internal cavity of the filter media tube.   The central tube portion includes a second fluid passage that is radially spaced from the central passage, the second fluid passage providing the clean flow path, and the second fluid passage is The filter cartridge of claim 9, further comprising an inlet in the central cavity of the filter media tube and in fluid communication with the clean fluid outlet through the second fluid passage.   The inlet of the second fluid passage is axially along the longitudinal axis and closer to the second end of the filter media tube than the first end of the filter media tube. The filter cartridge of claim 12, wherein the filter cartridge is located.   The central tube includes an axially extending tubular portion that extends axially through the central opening of the second end cap portion, wherein the distal end of the axially extending tubular portion is the center The filter cartridge of claim 11, wherein the filter cartridge defines the inlet of a passage. Filter cartridge for use in a reusable filter housing to filter dirty fluid supplied from a filter base and a dirty fluid port of a filter base to which the filter housing is releasably attachable The filter base further includes a clean fluid port and a return port, the filter cartridge comprising:
A filter media tube extending between the first and second ends along the longitudinal axis to define a central cavity;
A dirty fluid inlet upstream of the filter media tube and sealed by the dirty fluid port of the filter base and in fluid communication with the dirty fluid port;
A clean fluid outlet, downstream of the filter media tube, sealed by the clean fluid port and in fluid communication with the clean fluid port, wherein the filter media tube is fluidly connected to the dirty fluid inlet and the clean fluid port. The clean fluid outlet, which is placed between the fluid outlet and the fluid flow through the clean fluid outlet is to always pass through the filter media tube;
A return outlet sealed by the return port and in fluid communication with the return port, wherein the fluid flow through the return outlet bypasses the filter media tube; and
A filter cartridge comprising: A filter assembly comprising a filter base, a filter housing, and a filter cartridge,
The filter base includes a dirty fluid port, a clean fluid port, and a return port;
A first radially outward sealing surface extending axially along the longitudinal axis, and a first radially inward sealing surface having a smaller diameter than the first radially outward sealing surface; A first generally tubular portion that defines a dirt fluid port located radially between the first radially outward sealing surface and the first radially inward sealing surface. Said first generally tubular portion;
A second radially outward sealing surface extending axially along the longitudinal axis and having an outer diameter that is smaller than a diameter of the first radially inward sealing surface, and defining a central channel Two generally tubular portions, wherein the central channel forms the return port, and the clean fluid port includes the first radially inward sealing surface and the second radially outward sealing surface. Said second generally tubular portion formed between
The filter housing is removably attached to the filter base to define an internal cavity;
The filter cartridge is removably disposed within the internal cavity of the filter housing, and the filter cartridge is
A filter media tube extending between the first and second ends along the longitudinal axis to define a central cavity;
A first end cap portion sealingly attached to the first end of the filter media tube, the first end cap portion comprising:
A dirty fluid inlet defined by a dirty fluid inlet sealing arrangement fluid sealed by the first radially outward sealing surface and the first radially inward sealing surface, the filter media tube On the upstream side of the dirt fluid inlet in fluid communication with the dirt fluid port of the filter base;
A cleaning fluid outlet defined by a cleaning fluid outlet sealing configuration fluidly sealed by a first radially inward sealing surface and the second radially outward sealing surface, wherein the cleaning fluid outlet is Downstream of the filter media tube and in fluid communication with the clean fluid port of the filter base, the filter media tube being fluidly positioned between the dirty fluid inlet and the clean fluid outlet; The clean fluid outlet, wherein the fluid flow through the clean fluid outlet must pass through the filter media tube; and
A return outlet defined by a return outlet sealing configuration fluidly sealed by the second radially outward sealing surface, the return outlet in fluid communication with the return port;
The filter cartridge and the filter housing define a sump area therebetween, the sump area being downstream of the filter media tube and upstream of the return outlet, wherein the sump area is Collecting water separated from dirty fluid outside the filter media tube, the return outlet being in fluid communication with the sump region through the central cavity of the filter media tube;
Filter assembly. The dirty fluid inlet seal configuration includes a first radially inward seal and a first radially outward seal, wherein the first radially outward seal is the first radial seal. The dirty fluid inlet has a smaller diameter than a radially inward seal, and the dirty fluid inlet includes the first radially inward seal and the first radially outward seal of the dirty fluid inlet seal configuration. An annular gap formed between
The clean fluid inlet seal configuration includes a second radially inward seal and the first radially outward seal, wherein the second radially inward seal is the first The cleaning fluid outlet is located radially inward relative to the radially outward sealing material, and the cleaning fluid outlet is the first radially outward sealing material and the second radially inward sealing material. A gap formed between
The return outlet sealing configuration is provided by the second radially inward seal;
The filter assembly of claim 16.   The dirty fluid inlet is axially spaced along the longitudinal axis from the first end of the filter media and at least a portion is radially inward from the outer diameter of the filter media tube. Located and the first end cap portion defines a radially outward flow path that extends radially outward relative to the longitudinal axis when there is downstream flow from the dirt fluid inlet. The filter assembly of claim 16.   The filter assembly of claim 18, wherein the radially outward flow path is axially spaced from the first end of the filter media tube.   The filter assembly of claim 17, wherein the second radially inward seal and the first radially outward seal are provided by a single seal member.   21. The filter assembly of claim 20, wherein the first radially inward seal is provided by a second seal member.   A second radially outward sealing material proximate to a radially outer periphery of the first end cap portion, wherein the second radially outward sealing material is radially inward of the filter housing; The filter assembly of claim 21, wherein the filter assembly is configured to be sealed by a facing sealing surface to seal the filter cartridge within the filter housing. A return flow path extending through the internal cavity of the filter media tube, the return flow path being fluidly positioned between the dirty fluid inlet and the return outlet, wherein the flow of separated water is The return channel passing through the return channel;
A clean flow path extending from the downstream side of the filter media tube through the internal cavity to the clean fluid outlet, wherein the clean flow path is fluidly separated from the return flow path;
The filter assembly of claim 16 further comprising:   And further comprising a second end cap portion attached to the second end of the filter media tube, the second end cap portion passing through the second end cap portion. 24. The filter assembly of claim 23, wherein the return flow path is in fluid communication with the outside of the filter media tube through the central opening.   A central tube portion located within the internal cavity of the filter media tube, the central tube portion including a central passage providing the return flow path, wherein the central passage is of the second end cap portion; 25. The filter assembly of claim 24, in fluid communication with the outside of the filter media tube through the central opening.   The central passage of the central tube includes an inlet disposed axially away from the return outlet, the inlet disposed axially away from the second end of the filter media tube; 26. The filter assembly of claim 25, wherein an inlet is located outside the internal cavity of the filter media tube.   The central tube portion includes a second fluid passage that is radially spaced from the central passage, the second fluid passage providing the clean flow path, and the second fluid passage is 25. The filter assembly of claim 24, having an inlet in the central cavity of the filter media tube and in fluid communication with the clean fluid outlet through the second fluid passage.   The inlet of the second fluid passage is axially along the longitudinal axis and closer to the second end of the filter media tube than the first end of the filter media tube. 28. The filter assembly of claim 27, wherein the filter assembly is located.   The central tube includes an axially extending tubular portion that extends axially through the central opening of the second end cap portion, wherein the distal end of the axially extending tubular portion is the center 27. The filter assembly of claim 26, wherein the filter assembly defines the inlet of a passage. A filter base including a dirty fluid port, a clean fluid port, and a return port;
A filter housing removably attachable to the filter base and defining an internal cavity;
A filter cartridge removably disposed within the internal cavity of the filter housing, the filter cartridge comprising:
A filter media tube extending between the first and second ends along the longitudinal axis to define a central cavity;
A dirty fluid inlet upstream of the filter media tube and sealed by the dirty fluid port of the filter base and in fluid communication with the dirty fluid port;
A clean fluid outlet sealed by the clean fluid port and in fluid communication with the clean fluid port downstream of the filter media tube;
A return outlet sealed by the return port and in fluid communication with the return port;
When the filter cartridge is installed in the filter housing, the filter cartridge and the filter housing define a water reservoir region therebetween, the water reservoir region being downstream of the filter media tube; And when upstream of the return outlet and when the filter cartridge is installed in the filter housing, the return outlet is in fluid communication with the water reservoir region;
The sump area collects water separated from the dirty fluid before the dirty fluid passes through the filter media tube;
Filter assembly. A filter assembly comprising a filter base, a filter housing, and a filter cartridge,
The filter base is:
A first radially outward sealing surface extending axially along the longitudinal axis, and a first radially inward sealing surface having a smaller diameter than the first radially outward sealing surface; A first generally tubular portion that defines a dirt fluid port located radially between the first radially outward sealing surface and the first radially inward sealing surface. Said first generally tubular portion;
A second radially outward sealing surface extending axially along the longitudinal axis and having an outer diameter that is smaller than a diameter of the first radially inward sealing surface, and defining a central channel Two generally tubular portions, wherein the central channel forms a return port, and a cleaning fluid port is between the first radially inward sealing surface and the second radially outward sealing surface. And the second generally tubular portion formed,
The filter housing is removably attached to the filter base to define an internal cavity;
The filter cartridge is removably disposed within the internal cavity of the filter housing, and the filter cartridge is
A filter media tube extending between the first and second ends along the longitudinal axis and parallel to the longitudinal axis and defining a central cavity;
A dirt fluid inlet sealed upstream by the dirt fluid port of the filter base and in fluid communication with the dirt fluid port upstream of the filter media tube;
A clean fluid outlet sealed by the clean fluid port and in fluid communication with the clean fluid port downstream of the filter media tube;
A return outlet sealed by the return port and in fluid communication with the return port;
The filter cartridge and the filter housing define a sump area therebetween, the sump area being downstream of the filter media tube and upstream of the return outlet, wherein the sump area is Collecting water separated from dirty fluid outside the filter media tube, the return outlet being in fluid communication with the sump region through the central cavity of the filter media tube;
Filter assembly. A method for filtering fluid comprising:
Receiving a dirty fluid at the filter base inlet port;
Before the contaminated fluid enters a central cavity of a filter media tube of a filter cartridge attached to the filter base, water is separated from the contaminated fluid, and the water is separated from the filter cartridge and the filter cartridge. Passing through a water reservoir region formed between a filter housing disposed therein;
Passing the dirty fluid through the filter media tube to remove particulates from the dirty fluid and converting the dirty fluid into a clean fluid;
Passing the clean fluid through a clean fluid flow path having an inlet in the central cavity of the filter media tube;
Discharging the clean fluid from the clean fluid flow path through a clean fluid outlet of the filter cartridge;
Passing the water through a return channel extending through a central cavity of the filter media tube;
Discharging the water through a return outlet of the filter cartridge;
Including methods.   33. The method of claim 32, wherein the water enters the return flow path through an inlet of the return flow path that is located axially outward with respect to the central cavity of the filter media tube. 34. The method of claim 33, further comprising the step of replacing the filter cartridge with a new filter cartridge comprising replacing the return flow path while replacing the filter cartridge. .

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